[kluvbuzz]

I am running Windows XP. My brother built the computer and does not know the administrator password that he set up for me, which limits some options(like safe mode). I am running two expired antivirus softwares with virus definitions that won't renew. (PC-cilin 2006 and Norton Antivirus 2005) They both caught a virus and I quarrantined and deleted three items in Norton, however the real virus remains. It is a .tmp file that is in my temporary folder. It changes it's filename every like two seconds, which makes both anti-virus softwares send me a pop up letting me know, when I push OK another pops up with a different file name (because it is the same file that changes it's name). Both anti-virus software has discovered the problem and said that is unable to delete. I have tried opening the program in notepad to delete the info it showed, but it changed it's name. I have also tried saving notepad files as it's current name but again it changes it's name so fast. I am a college student, in dire need of my computer, and this virus is slowing it way down, I can't use it. I am typing now in the school library. So PLEASE I BEG YOU HELP ME!!

[phillysteakandcheese]

Given you have lost control of the Administrator account, and the machine's security has been comprimised, the best option now is to reformat the hard drive and re-install the OS (using all new passwords). You have no way of knowing how far the security has been penetrated, so start fresh.

If you have documents to pictures to save, I would write them to a CD or USB drive, and only after you've got the new machine up and running - with your Antivirus updated and all Microsoft security updates installed - scan the files for viruses before copying them back to your newly imaged computer.

Also - I would recommend you install only one Antivirus product on your system. Running more than one AntiVirus can cause conflicts, and will really slow your system down. Choose just one. If you later want a "second opinion", you can always use one of the free online scanners to check your system.

[kluvbuzz]

Thank you for your feedback.
I was, however, only going to reformat everything as a very last resort.
Is there anything else I can do first, or am I at the end of my rope?
Thanks again,
Brian